Black Tupelo

Other Common Names/Trade Names: Black gumScientific Name: Nyssa sylvaticaBest Characteristics for Identification: General lack of distinguishing characteristics .Uses: Low grade lumber, furniture, railroad ties, pallets and other low grade uses. Pulp.General Natural Range: Eastern Oklahoma and Texas extending north and eastward to southern Michigan and central New England.Identical or Nearly Identical Species: None.Other Species Easily Confused With: Aspen due primarily to lack of distinguishing characteristics. Means of Distinguishing Similar Species : Black tupelo is much harder and heavier than aspen. It is also darker in color.